Multimedia Encyclopedia

Lymphogranuloma venereum

Causes

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a chronic (long-term) infection of the lymphatic system caused by three different types of the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. The bacteria spread through sexual contact. The infection is not caused by the same bacteria that cause genital chlamydia.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is an infection caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. It is most commonly sexually transmitted.

Tenesmus

Small painless sore on the male genitals or in the female genital tract

Swelling and redness of the skin in the groin area

Swelling of the labia

Swollen groin lymph nodes on one or both sides; it may also affect lymph nodes around the rectum in people who have anal intercourse

The infection can cause diarrhea and lower abdominal pain.

Exams and Tests

Your doctor or nurse will examine you and ask questions about your medical and sexual history. Always tell your health care provider if you had sexual contact with someone who has had lymphogranuloma venereum.

Biopsy

Treatment

Antibiotics that are commonly prescribed to treat LGV include tetracycline, doxycycline, erythromycin, and azithromycin.

Outlook (Prognosis)

With treatment, the outlook is good.

Possible Complications

Abnormal connections between the rectum and vagina

Brain inflammation (very rare)

Infections in the joints, eyes, heart, or liver

Long-term inflammation and swelling of the genitals

Scarring and narrowing of the rectum

Complications can occur many years after you are first infected.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call your health care provider if:

You have been in contact with someone who may a sexually transmitted infection, including LGV

You develop symptoms of LGV

Prevention

Not having anysexual activity is the only way to prevent a sexually transmitted infection. Safer sex behaviors may reduce the risk.

The proper use of condoms, either the male or female type, greatly decreases the risk of catching a sexually transmitted infection. You need to wear the condom from the beginning to the end of each sexual activity.

Lymphatic system - illustration

The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. It is an important part of the immune system. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Common areas where lymph nodes can be easily felt, especially if they are enlarged, are: the groin, armpits (axilla), above the clavicle (supraclavicular), in the neck (cervical), and the back of the head just above hairline (occipital).

Lymphatic system

illustration

Lymphatic system - illustration

The lymphatic system filters fluid from around cells. It is an important part of the immune system. When people refer to swollen glands in the neck, they are usually referring to swollen lymph nodes. Common areas where lymph nodes can be easily felt, especially if they are enlarged, are: the groin, armpits (axilla), above the clavicle (supraclavicular), in the neck (cervical), and the back of the head just above hairline (occipital).